Household Energy, Technological Dependence, and New Ways of Communication in Buffalo, New York

Rebecca Shaw interviews her mother, Vernee Shaw, about technological changes in Buffalo, New York. Shaw begins by discussing her earliest memories of household energy usage, like electrical appliances and the television. She also describes being conscious of energy conservation from a young age. Shaw reflects changes in household chores as a result of new domestic technologies, like washing machines, dryers, and microwaves. Shaw discusses having a landline, getting her first cellphone, and the changes she has observed in privacy, safety, and lifestyle due to the widespread adoption of cellphones and GPS. Shaw discusses on the ways that technology has expanded and shares her predictions and concerns for its future.